A seasonless staple worth investing in? Black trousers. The quiet hero of every wardrobe—they’re an endlessly versatile piece that can fit into any scenario with ease. Dressed up or pared back, it’s the item that deserves a little extra time and effort in the fitting room, because once you find the pair, they’ll carry through years of crafting the perfect uniform.
Vogue Editor’s Favorite Black Pants
The black trouser is one of those seemingly unassuming items that transforms with styling. And if the runways have taught us anything over the past few seasons, it’s that hero items only become iconic when you make them your own. Wear it with a simple sweater for daily errands, or take it out for cocktails layered under an asymmetrical slip dress with a sharp blazer. However you style it, the black pant rises to the occasion.
Which is precisely why Vogue editors were quick to volunteer their favorites. From flared to tailored and cashmere to satin iterations, their picks span both heritage houses and high-street finds. Below, shop the best black trousers on the market—according to Vogue editors, and destined to become your new everyday hero.
Chloe Malle, head of editorial content
“High Sport pants are not traditional trousers (they are stretchy and cropped!) but they fill the role of black trousers in my life and I have to stop myself from wearing them several times a week. I also recently purchased these satin trousers from J. Crew which can go office to office party in a snap.”
Virginia Smith, global head of fashion network
“Unlike my fabulous colleague, Irene Kim, I wear pants every day. Yes, these Phoebe Philo trousers are a serious investment—and one I debated for a year. But the boyish cut really works for me and the quality is amazing. I wear the pieces I love for years so these will be in my closet for a while.”
Naomi Elizée, fashion market director
“My go-to pair of black trousers are from Mango. I love them so much that I own two pairs so I always have one to reach for.”
Mai Morsch, fashion editor
“I recently bought, and love, this pair of trousers from Cos. I sized up two sizes for a perfectly low rise, effortless fit. At 5’7″, they hit just right with either flats or a low-heeled boot. I also like the true straight leg cut, which has a classic ’90s minimalist feel.”
Talia Abbas, shopping director
I am never not looking for the perfect pants—at 5’1″, there is always something to fuss over. The search for a pleated black trouser continues (maybe 2026 will be my year?), but as far as silky pairs go, I found my platonic ideal in Leset’s cropped Barb. I purchased them early in the fall when I couldn’t find this drawstring version anywhere in my size; I’ve lost track how often I’ve worn them in the past few months. Relaxed yet refined, they have the perfect slouch and a delicate lace trim.
Christian Allaire, senior fashion and style writer
“I exclusively wear the Wrangler black dress jeans—almost every single day. The trousers have the perfect flare to them, and fit my awkwardly long legs really nicely. They’re a must for anyone whose style leans more ’70s.”
Irene Kim, production and editorial associate
“I honestly don’t wear trousers often so I don’t like spending too much money on them. Luckily Uniqlo always has a great pair of wide-legged trousers that are usually under $50. They fit well and they’re comfortable and honestly look just as good as a more expensive pair.”
Andrea Zendejas, shopping market editor
“Leset’s satin trousers are not your typical black pant but, but effortless and elegant alternative. I love that you can style them with everything from an oversized button down to chunky turtleneck knit. For a more classic approach, Anine Bing’s wide-leg pleated trouser is a office ready option.”
Alexandra Ditch, associate commerce producer
“Both the fabrication and the fit of Reformation’s Mason pants make them a dream to wear. They’re extremely soft and lightweight, cinch perfectly at the waist, and drape with a wide-leg fit. At 5’3” I opt for the petite sizing.”
Cortne Bonilla, senior shopping writer
“On the higher end, The Row’s wide-leg Gala pants have never done me wrong. They add an effortless, relaxed tone to any outfit I put together, even for late-nights. On the more affordable side, The Frankie Shop’s Ripley pants, with its pleats and mid-rise, are a work staple that I can’t live without.”
Minty Mellon, shopping market editor
“I’m always looking for that sweet spot where comfort meets tailoring—and Guest in Residence’s cashmere pants are the perfect balance. They’ve been a personal favorite for years. I wear them for long travel days when I still want to feel elevated, weekend strolls, and even to the office—with a crisp button-down, a slouchy V-neck sweater, and polished loafers. Consider them the rare staple that will make you forget you’re in trousers and not sweatpants!”
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